Hybrid was the right choice for us

User: None

Vendor: None

Action: 7 - Buy/lease an electric car/hybrid

When the U.N. made its most recent Global Warning announcement, I decided to act to significantly reduce his use of gasoline. I looked at the Honda Insight (Hybrid only) and the Chevrolet Volt, but in October bought a Honda Clarity! One of the better plug-ins available, I believe. I drive the first 40 miles each day on electricity only. This makes most of my days gas free! Hybrid mileage (for those above 40 miles/day) at 44 mpg. So far, I have driven about 1300 miles and only used 5 gallons of gas! i.e. 260 mpg!! I have purchased my electricity from a green provider. Therefore, I am driving on solar and wind for the first 40 miles/day – which, for me, is most of my daily use. With rebates ($10,000 total) and Honda discounts, this car listing at $34,450 can be purchased at a new cost of about $20,000! Same list price as the Volt, but $1000s of dollars more Dealer discount. I think it’s a bigger better car! The Bolt (all electric) is about $3000 more. It is a mid-sized car about the size of a Camry, Accord, etc. Nice styling. Great, quiet (silent) ride when on electric! I plug in at night and in 12 hours I get fully charged using standard 120 volt connection – ready for the next day. No need for 240 voltage at additional $1000 or so. Other comments: Mileage costs are favorable, but electricity is not free. Therefore my mileage costs (gas only vs electricity/gas) are favorable but muted. I believe I will be using about 600 gallons less in gas and save about $300 in the process. Advantages of a plug-in Hybrid over full electric car: Greater range, can always be filled with gasoline (at a gas station and immediately). No anxiety! Disadvantage: Much less electric only range for long distance travel – so if mileage/day is extensive the plug-in Hybrid may not be best option. Hope this helps anyone else considering!